Established in 1995, Mission Beach Nature Tours is locally owned and operated by Rona Harvey, who has spent most of her life in the Mission Beach area.

You are invited to join her for a very enjoyable day exploring the unspoilt Wet Tropics environment by canoe.

The tour begins at Japoonvale, which is a pleasant half hour drive from Mission Beach along the Mena Creek road. Mena Creek Hotel, Mena Creek Falls and Paronella Park - known internationally for its heritage gardens and castle ruins, are all only 20 minutes further on. (Map)

For those inexperiened canoeists, there is a short "practice" time in a sheltered area of the creek. Once you're comfortable in your canoe, you can float at your leisure along the crystal clear waters of Liverpool Creek, as it winds its way through the rainforest.

There will be plenty of time for swimming, bird watching or just relaxing in the tranquil surroundings and Rona will be happy to familiarise you with the local flora and fauna.

The trip is all downstream and calm water, making it easy paddling for anyone, but if you're still not confident, arrangements can be made to have someone do the paddling for you!

Depending on the water flow and the paddlers, the canoeing will take approximately three to four hours.

At the end of the day there is a BBQ lunch with steak, sausages and a fresh garden salad. Vegetarians can be catered for, just ask when booking your trip.